The non-sheet mask roundup: 10 masks for every skin situation
Written By Jenny Wu on
I’ve professed my love for sheet masks countless times, but there are times when these sheet masks won’t cut it and instead I reach for my jar/tube masks instead.
So today, I’ll be sharing the masks I have in my rotation, what they can be used for, and of course, my thoughts on them, because if you can’t tell by now, I’m pretty opinionated when it comes to beauty products.
Masks for soothing and nourishing the skin
When my skin is feeling really dry or when I’ve over-exfoliated (something I really should get better at…), I reach for these babies:
- I’m From Honey Mask smells and feels like real honey, and that’s because it is made with 38.7% real honey plus soothing ingredients like propolis, snail secretion filtrate, and beta-glucan. I’m on my second jar of this and it’s especially amazing in the winter when my skin is prone to dryness. My skin always feel soft and moisturized after using this.
Available at Wishtrend for $37.9 (free global shipping & get $3 off with code WISH3AUG), Amazon for $31.58, or YesStyle for $26.32 - First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask is another great masks that contains colloidal oatmeal and bisabolol to soothe irritated skin. It has a calming milk + oatmeal scent and my skin always feels better after using this. I do wish the tube was bigger though, especially since I like to lather this on pretty thick.
Available at Sephora, Ulta, and Dermstore for $24 - Yves Roche Cool Moisture Mask is super affordable, hydrates well, and smells like grapes! Sadly the grape version has been discontinued but the new version contains chamomile flower water and cranberry extract for an extra antioxidant boost. I like using this in the shower.
Available at Yves Rocher for $4.99
Masks to (gently) detox and clarify the skin
Deep cleaning clay masks, while effective, are also really drying. Yet I seem to be subconsciously drawn to them, given that most of my wash-off masks are in this category. Anyways, here are a few that masks I found that clean just as well without stripping the skin:
- RE:P Bio Fresh Mask With Real Calming Herb was a beautiful accident. This cleans as well as any other clay masks I’ve tried, but it also includes calendula and chamomile extract to minimize any irritations. I’ve pretty much stopped using my other clay masks now because this one is superior in every way. I might cry if they discontinue this.
Available at Soko Glam or eBay for $41; Selfridges for $35 - Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask EX is one of the brands more affordable products and definitely fun to use if you enjoyed peeling glue off your hands as a kid (anyone? or am I just weird?). I have a full review on this, but in a nutshell it clarifies without drying your skin while helping with product absorption. Great stuff.
Available at Nordstrom - Skin Actives Pore Refreshing Mask* is probably the strongest mask out of the 4, but even then I wouldn’t call it drying, though your skin might sting if it’s sensitive. Another fun peeling mask with lots of great ingredients for oily and acne-prone skin. Not pictured here because I finished it D:
Available at Skin Actives for $10 - Peter Thomas Roth Irish Moor Mud Mask isn’t like your typical clay mask, it’s actually a gel mask. I tried a sample of this and fell in love – how can a mask deep clean and hydrate at the same time? What is this magic? I just ordered a full-sized tub since Macy’s is having a sale – $33 instead of $58 with 12% cash back from eBates!
Available at Sephora, Ulta, and Dermstore for $58; Selfridges for $50; Macy’s for $33!! - Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask is your typical clay mask, though I do like that this contains charcoal which can help detox the skin. I bring the sample size with me when I travel and it does a good job of making my skin feel clean and refreshed. Otherwise there’s really nothing that stands out for me so I won’t be purchasing the full size product.
Available at Sephora, Ulta, and Selfridges for $27
Masks to revitalize and brighten the skin
It’s hard to really classify these masks as they do a little bit of everything: hydrate, nourish, gently exfoliate, and brighten. Great if you’re too lazy to use a bunch of different masks and just one want that does it all (sort of).
- Oskia Renaissance Mask uses enzymes and fruit acids to gently exfoliate your skins and clear your pores, giving your brighter smoother skin with continuous use. It feels oh-so-luxurious going on, and there’s a slight warming sensation as the mask works on your skin, but no stinging or tingling. A gentle alternative to glycolic or salicylic acids.
Available at CultBeauty, Beauty Bay, and Selfridges for $54; Look Fantastic for $67.50 - Naruko Raw Job’s Tear Brightening Night Gelly* has a name that’s too long for it’s own good, but I can’t deny that it’s a nice hydrating and brightening mask thanks to ingredients like niacinamide and job’s tears. I actually prefer using it as a wash-off mask as I don’t find it occlusive enough as a sleeping pack.
Available at Naruko Boutique for $24.99; Amazon for $18.99 (with Prime shipping); Naruko Canada for $17.52
What about sheet masks?
In my opinion, sheet masks are what you use when you want to add hydration to your skin, and they’re damn good at it. Of course there are also sheet masks for brightening, anti-aging, clarifying, etc, but you get the same variety with wash off masks and at that point it comes down which brands and format you prefer, since not all sheet masks are made equal.
Hope you enjoyed this post, and let me know what your favorite wash-off masks are, or if you’re interested in full reviews for any of these! Have a great week everyone!
Passionate about science-based skincare. Tested hundreds if not thousands of products since my 20's. Working regularly with brands like iHerb, Ulta, CurrentBody, and MedStar Health to share my knowledge and experience in all things beauty. Learn more.
Skin profile: 35+, dry/combination, focused on well-aging, hydration, and a healthy glow ✨
Comments & Questions
Cat L.
Great roundup Jenny! Love using mask, they're probably my most purchased skincare alongside cleansers. I have my eyes on a few masks you discussed: the honey one, the First Aid Beauty and the Origins. I like that the Honey mask also contains propolis, which is hard to find in skincare these days. Thank you for sharing this post!
~ Cat L.
www.CatsDailyLiving.com
Jenny Wu
Totally agree, honey + propolis + royal jelly is what I consider one of the holy trinities in skincare :P I'd actually love to try the Farmacy honey mask to see how the 2 compare, especially since you've raved about it before! Thanks for reading :)
Shivangi
All these masks sound so good! :) I would love to try the Bio Fresh Mask With Calming Herb! Thanks for the review!! :) Have a great day!
xx
Shivangi
Jenny Wu
That's such a great mask, just wish it was available at more retailers! Thanks for reading!
Hannah
I am not a big fan of the PTR Irish Moor mask, but that's partially because it gets really messy. I love the cucumber and pumpkin one though!
Hannah
Floraful
Jenny Wu
That is the one downside with gel-like masks, especially since that one is black too. I really want to try their other masks as well, they all look so good!
Naya
I agree with you 100%, sheets masks are great for moisture and maybe firming, but traditional methods work much better for everything else. I really want to try that oatmeal mask now, as well as Irish Mud!
Naya // www.partyparrotblog.com
Jenny Wu
The irish mud is wonderful, especially if you don't like how drying regular clay masks are!
Velvet Blush
I love the way you split it up into different categories depending on how the skin is feeling. I haven't heard of many of these before, but the Yves Rocher moisture mask sounds perfect for me, and it's so affordable x
Velvet Blush
Jenny Wu
Yves Rocher has some great products that are affordable as well, they're a very underrated brand in my opinion!
Laura
So many great recommendations! I have the I'm From Honey Mask in my list x
Laura
Pink Frenzy
Jenny Wu
That one might be my favorite mask overall! Thanks for reading Laura!
LindaLibraLoca
I do prefer jar or tube masks over sheet masks, but that might be down to the fact that I need less hydration and more other stuff.
At the moment I still enjoy the The Body Shop Superfood Face Masks a lot.
Linda, Libra, Loca: Beauty, Baby and Backpacking
Jenny Wu
I've been meaning to try The Body Shop Superfood face masks, especially the Chinese Ginseng & Rice one. I just found your review on them and am watching it now!
Shireen L. Platt
What a lovely selection of masks featured here, Jenny and thank you for this post. I have my eyes on Oskia Renaissance mask for some time now and planning to get it as soon as Cult Beauty has a good sale or the usual brilliant GWP.
Jenny Wu
Highly recommend the Oskia mask, and yes, definitely wait for their GWP, they include some seriously incredible products! Thanks for reading <3
Emily
I love how you put this list together! It's nice you organized them by skin situation. I often find that masks claim sooo many things these days, so it's nice to have a clear vision of which should be used for what. I've used a lot of these, but like Shireen, I really want to try the Oskia one! I don't know if they just have good marketing, but it seems like a lot of people love it. I am not a huge fan of sheet masks just because a lot of times I don't think they're worth the price tag. And I hate it when you use a sheet mask, and it leaves a TON of essence at the bottom and you want to use it but your face is already so slimy lol. So I usually just toss it but it feels like such a waste!
-Emily www.coatandcoffee.com
Jenny Wu
Thank you Emily! I'm always a little wary of products that promise to do everything, and find that I get better results with products that target just 1-2 concerns. I've tried 3 of Oskia's products and have enjoyed each one a lot. The ingredients are great, the textures are wonderful, but mostly importantly is that they deliver results!
I do agree with you on sheet masks, some of them are so overpriced, hence why I try to stick with really affordable ones that have a more watery essence. If I do have extra essence in the pouch I always try to use it on my neck/arms/legs, or even save it for the next morning!
Sabiha
Such a great selection. I love the sound of the Oskia Renaissance one since i have tried their cleansing gel and can imagine this would be good too x
www.franklyflawless.com
Jenny Wu
Thank you Sabiha! If you enjoyed their cleansing gel you'll like the mask too, the texture and scent are very similar!
Batsheva
masks always seemed so luxurious to me-- something I've always wanted to try out, but am always too lazy to do so. I say step by step with my skin care. I actually think that I'm ready to add another step to my routine-- in your opinion Jenny, what would be a good step to add to my routine after a toner?
http://cynicalduchess.com
Jenny Wu
If I feel like pampering my skin, a mask is definitely what I reach for, hence my need for 10 different masks :P But if you want to keep your routine simple, I would highly recommend adding a serum to your routine!
Batsheva
Thanks Jenny! And by the way, I never got to properly thank you for the sunscreen advice you left on my blog-- it was so helpful, and now that I'm properly settled, and I can go ahead and order one of them! xx
Jenny Wu
No problem, always glad to help! :D
Mika
Oh Jenny these are a great roundup of masks! I usually love to use clay masks only but this year I did venture out to try other types. I've been really impressed by Naruko, I have their tea tree night gelly and it's been so helpful to me this summer. I'm From Honey Mask is also one that I like, too!
Jenny Wu
Thanks so much Mika! The tea tree night gelly does sound wonderful for the summer, I'll have to check it out!
Sam
Great post and a good reminder to start using masks a lot more. I have fallen into the (lazy) habit of using sleeping masks for hydration but was in need of a good detoxing clay mask. Would love to try the Peter Thomas Roth one x Sam
Sam Hodgett || Beauty, Food & Lifestyle
Jenny Wu
I get into those days too where I'm just too lazy to bother with a wash-off mask, but I've yet to find a sleeping mask (except for the Sulwhasoo one) that I've really enjoyed. The PTR one really is lovely, would love to hear your thoughts on it if you do try it!
Yanrula
So many masks I didn't know about! I like that you included the prices haha I've been trying to get my hands on the Oatmeal Mask for a while now. Tried out a sample once and fell in love! :D
Jenny Wu
It is a great mask :D I wish more masks included oatmeal in them, it's so great for when my skin is red/irritated!
Gemma
Ah I so need to try the Oskia mask, it sounds amazing! xx
Gemma • Gemma Etc. ❤️
Jenny Wu
I feel like I'm at a spa every time I use it!
Marina Rosie
Jenny, this post was absolute skincare gold - I needed something like this in my life to differentiate, so this has been swiftly bookmarked! x I love the sound of the skin actives mask - being a teen, I have the inevitable spotty skin that you expect, so something like that could be fab for me! xx
Marina x
https://marinawriteslife.blogspot.fr/
Jenny Wu
Thanks so much Marina! Even though I'm far from being a teen, I still get those occasionally spots and luckily these masks take care of the trouble for me ;)
Stephanie | thefantasia.com
Yet another wonderful and informative post Jenny! Love the variety - I'm never too much into face masks - I've only used the charcoal one from Origins religiously! I need a bit of variety and this is a very helpful post to breakdown what I need in my future shopping trips!
Stephanie | theFantasia.com
Jenny Wu
Thanks so much Stephanie! Haha, I'm the opposite - masks are a huge part of my routine, probably my favorite part too :P Would love to hear your thoughts if you ever try any of these!
Alyssa
Been wanting to try that Honey Mask and Origins Charcoal masks! I may start with the Honey Mask when I finish my jar of Lineage Water Sleeping Mask since it's easier to get in Southeast Asia :)
xx Alyssa // STYLE VANITY
Jenny Wu
Hope you'll love the honey mask as much as I do! Thanks for reading Alyssa :)
Ankita Bardhan
Couldn't agree more with you, always felt sheet masks might be good but traditional masks do the job far better and I see no point in replacing them with sheet masks. Wasn't ever completely sold on charcoal mask but the honey mask and oatmeal mask from First Aid Beauty are enticing me a lot :)
xx
http://realgirltalks.com/
Jenny Wu
Definitely recommend the honey mask, I reach for it all the time, especially in the winter because it's so nourishing! I still love sheet masks though, they're so easy to use and if you use the right ones, can really make a difference to your skin :) Thanks for reading!
Rowena @ rolala loves
This a fantastic roundup Jenny. I had heard of some of these but not all so it was a good intro! I think I need that First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask. It sounds like it would be wonderful when my skin is being reactive and needs soothing. I wouldn't give up my sheet masks for anything but I do like using wash off type masks to address specific issues like clogged pores or hyperpigmentation. Herbivore
Brighten Pineapple Enzyme Gemstone Instant Glow Mask is one that I currently swear by for visible results.
Jenny Wu
Thank you so much Rowena! I agree, as much as I love using wash off masks for certain needs, sheet masks will always be my favorite type of masks to use! Will need to check out that Herbivore Mask, thank you for the recommendation!!
becky
I liked that Origins clay mask too! It's one of the few products I like from them actually, a lot of them seem to break me out all over and I'm not very prone to breakouts. It's my go-to mask for when little pimples pop up here and there.
I'm quite interested in the FAB oatmeal mask too, I need to remember to ask for a sample next time I'm at Sephora!
Becky @ star violet
Jenny Wu
I'm the exact same way with Origin's products!! Their moisturizers gave me a ridiculous allergic reaction and my skin was red for days, but their masks are fantastic. Thanks for reading!
Merel
Wow! All these masks sound amazing! I need to try them.
X Merel
www.andathousandwords.com
Jenny Wu
Hope you enjoy them as much as I do!
Daniel
Great post!
Daniel x
Lavanya
You've mentioned so many of my favourites here, the Oskia one has an immediate brightening effect on me, and the First Aid one is great for when my skin is all dehydrated and dull.
Jenny Wu
Love the First Aid one for when my skin is dehyrated too! Thanks for reading :)
Bernice
I love face masks! The Origins charcoal mask sounds like it'll be my favourite soon!
Bernice | IG @bunnybernice
https://www.bunnybernice.com/single-post/2017/08/11/Cheeky-Cosmetics-Haul-and-Liquid-Lipstick-Review
Jenny Wu
It's my favorite mask from Origins! Thanks for reading!
Josipa
Great post! Thank you!
Jenny Wu
Thanks for reading Josipa!
Tales of Two
This is such a great list and I'm so looking forward to trying them! I've really been into masks lately and what's worked quite well is a a combination of using a clay mask (I use rosy cheeks from Lush, fullers earth or a manuka honey one by Swisse) followed by a sheet mask from Tony Moly.
The first one works very well to deep clean the skin and clean your pores and applying the Tony Moly right before bed leaves you with super soft, supple and hydrated skin the next morning! x
http://talesoftwoblog.blogspot.com.au
Jenny Wu
Oh yes, I love double masking when I feel like pampering my skin, it really makes such a difference to the skin! Thank you for the masks recommendations, will have to check them out!
Lorna
I love the Origins Charcoal mask! I use that one all the time, it's amazing!
Raindrops of Sapphire
Jenny Wu
It's definitely one of my favorite masks from Origins. Thanks for reading!
Amy
Ooh I haven't tried any of these, so loads to add to my wishlist. I love using masks like these to freshen up my skin, especially if i've got unwanted marks and dryness etc. Sheet masks are cool but they're expensive for one use and as you say, add moisture which I tend to look to my serums for. I enjoy them more as an occasional treat, where as masks like these I rely on regularly.
https://amyevans.co.uk - Amy
Jenny Wu
I agree with you on sheet masks, they can be ridiculously expensive and the cost isn't justified with most of them. I feel more comfortable using wash off masks regularly as well :) Thanks for reading!
Mili
Agreed that sheet masks are perfect for adding hydration. When I want to clarify or exfoliate my skin, I reach for a wash off mask. That oskia mask has been on my wish list for a few months but it's so pricey I haven't bitten the bullet yet! The Sulwhasoo mask also sounds so lovely, and I agree it's a relatively affordable product from the brand. I have a deluxe sample of the re:p mask and now I'm excited to give it a go :)
Mili | sharmtoaster
Jenny Wu
I got my Oskia mask from CultBeauty during their spring GWP sale so it made the high price a bit more tolerable, hehe. And yes to the Sulwhasoo mask, I really like this and their overnight one, the value is definitely there! Thanks for reading Mili!
Dimito Michiyo
I love this post especially since I am reading it at a time when I am looking to restock my masks and looking for new products to try...
Thanks babe!
X❤X❤,
Dimito Michiyo
http://dimitomichiyo.blogspot.sg/
Jenny Wu
Glad you found the post helpful, thanks so much for reading!
Venussmileygal
I haven't tried those masks...
I am currently using Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask and Beuins Honey Scrub Mask...
(◕‿◕✿) http://EmoteraGoddess.com
Jenny Wu
I've heard good things about that Innisfree mask, and the honey scrub mask sounds lovely! Thanks for sharing!
Heidi
I would love to try out that honey mask. It sounds everything that I love!
Heidi ✨ | Heidi’s Planner | Instagram
Jenny Wu
Its one of my favorites, especially for the winter!
JM Kayne
I needed all of these... pimples are coming out lately and I hope you could give an advise which one is good? Thank you in advance!
God Bless!
JM Kayne | www.iamjmkayne.com♥
Jenny Wu
When I'm breaking out I usually reach for the Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask or Skin Actives Pore Refreshing Mask. Hope this helps!
jeanine
When I've used up a bunch of the masks I currently have {mostly a pile of those Sephora deluxe samples} I'd love to find a wash off mask I'd like to keep on hand. The PTR Irish Moor Mud Mask actually stung my face so that's out for me, but the oatmeal mask sounds interesting. Thanks for listing these!
Jenny Wu
Aw no, sorry to hear about your reaction to the PTR mask :( The oatmeal one is really great for soothing the skin and it has such a comforting scent!